Helicopter operator CHC is relocating southern North Sea operations from its North Denes base in the UK to Norwich International Airport.

The company says that the decision was made after 12 months of in-depth research and consultation with customers, staff and the local business community. They said it will allow CHC to offer significantly improved services to its clients and offshore workforces as well as a much improved working environment.

In an announcement on CHC's website, the company said it does expect the move to result in job losses, but has begun a full consultation with employees.

CHC currently operates five AgustaWestland AW139s from North Denes. The heliport is an unlicensed site, which has been used as a base for offshore operations since the early 1970s. The company points out that the facility requires extensive refurbishment to meet the ongoing commercial needs of CHC, its customers and future regulatory requirements and would be better used as something other than a commercial airfield.

A new facility at Norwich features new hangarage and a specially-built terminal for passengers going offshore.

Tilmann Gabriel, CHC’s president of European operations, said: 'This is not a decision we have taken lightly and comes after a year of research and discussions with our customers, staff and the local business community. Our priority is to provide the best possible service to both our current and potential future customers.

'Moving operations to Norwich Airport will provide us with a solid foundation from which we can grow the business and create more of a positive impact on the local economy for many years to come.’

The move is expected to take place in May 2011.

By Tony Osborne, London_________________R22 2.6 h/r wanting more, a hell of a lot more